A: Pond plants aren’t just for larger bodies of water. Aquatic plants for small ponds can connect your backyard or balcony water feature with the rest of your landscaping. And they don’t just look pretty, either. Small pond plants benefit local ecosystems by creating homes for wildlife, keeping algae in check, and reducing erosion.
As for what plants are best for small ponds, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Pond size, depth, and landscaping aesthetic are all important factors.
Submerged plants for small ponds
These plants grow underwater, providing oxygen and shelter for any resident fish. They are also useful for algae control. And the good news is, many submerged plants do just as well in a container as in the ground.
Hornwort is one such plant. Its popularity is due, in part, to how effective it is at cleaning pond water. Hornwort grows and spreads quickly, something that requires a lot of energy. The plant gets that energy from nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the water, leaving little behind to sustain nuisances like algae.
Willow moss is another submerged plant that can thrive in the ground or a small pond plant basket. It also grows on surfaces such as rocks. Like hornwort, willow moss is excellent at consuming nutrients from the water, creating an environment where algae cannot grow.
Floating small pond plants
Floating plants are an excellent source of shade for any resident pond fish. They also serve as homes for local wildlife (think frogs on lily pads) and help oxygenate and clean pond water. From an aesthetic standpoint, these pond plants can add a splash of color or even lushness to your backyard.
Water lettuce is a particularly quick-growing floating plant. Like hornwort, water lettuce consumes much of the pond's nutrients to fuel its rapid expansion. This helps lower algae levels and keep pond water cleaner, while providing substantial shade for fish. You can grow water lettuce on the surface of your pond or in a container to help contain its spread.
Floating sensitive plants are also worth mentioning. They are a unique addition to any small pond. These plants have delicate leaves that close up when touched and occasionally bloom small yellow flowers.
Shoreline plants for small garden ponds
Any pond, small or large, can benefit from shoreline plants. In-ground shoreline plants absorb runoff from your yard, helping keep excess nutrients out of your pond water. And their roots help prevent erosion by keeping the ground in place.
Many shoreline plants also do well in containers. Some even help attract beneficial insects and reduce your backyard mosquito population.
Arrowheads make for excellent small pond plants. They thrive in a wide range of growing zones and conditions, and are relatively low maintenance, requiring some trimming every year or two. Arrowheads provide a home for frogs, they’re pollinator-friendly, and the tubers of some varieties are even edible.
Another container-friendly shoreline plant is the Blue Flag Iris. A striking plant, the Blue Flag Iris produces vibrant violet flowers in the late spring and early summer. The plant also attracts dragonflies.
What plants are best for small ponds?
Plants are adaptable, and many do quite well in small pond environments. If you need help choosing the best plants for your space, the experts at The Pond Guy are ready to assist.
Read more articles:
Benefits of Aquatic Plants in a Water Garden
Last Updated: June 10, 2025